Recommended Reading

The following is a bibliography of some of the most insightful pieces of historical literature on Freemasonry. The pieces include the beginnings of Freemasonry in Europe as well as Colonial America.

Bullock, Stephen C.

“The Revolutionary Transformation of American Freemasonry, 1752-1792.”

William and Mary Quarterly 37 (1990), 347-369.

A historical overview of the division between two Masonic groups in the 18th century. The 'Moderns’, who included only men of elite social status and intellect and the ‘Ancients’, who included men without political power or social distinction. The difference between these two groups mainly consisted of social politics. Bullock reviews the strong implications of Masonic transformation in the study of both Masonry and late 18th century American society. The manuscript also includes tables comparing and contrasting percentages of Modern and Ancient Lodge members with their occupations and the tax assessments of such in the colonies. Thus, the socioeconomic profile of the American Fraternity.

Hunter, Frederick M.

"The Regius Manuscript."

Research Lodge of Oregon, No.198: Portland Oregon, 1952.

Put together for research purposes by the author, 33rd Degree, of the Research Lodge of Oregon. This manuscript is the oldest known document in Masonic history. A rare view is given into the disciplines, doctrines and constitutions, etc. of Masonry. Included and explained in the manuscript are the aims of Masonic education and the 15 Articles and 15 Points constituting the ‘old charges’ (or Commandments); being the first recorded statement of a moral code and a charter of practice for Masons. The Seven Sciences making up Masonic philosophy is also explained. After the manuscript, Hunter gives a historical overview of how Freemasons were brought into full fruitage under the pioneer conditions of America and their contribution to the freeing of the thirteen colonies. B. Franklin, W. Pierce, J. Madison and G. Washington are all mentioned as Freemasons in the Constitutional Convention.

Jacob, Margaret C.

"Living the Enlightenment: Freemasonry and Politics in Eighteen-Century Europe ."

Oxford University Press: New York, 1991.

Jacob provides an insight into how Freemasons, in their private sociability, reconstituted polity and established a constitutional form of self-government complete with laws, elections and representatives. Moral, ethical and political prescriptions permeating Masonic rituals and discourse is thoroughly examined. Freemasonry wove Enlightened ideas into a tapestry of rituals and oaths; rules of conduct intended to induce loyalty and civility for its dedicated followers—promoting socially acceptable virtues. Also mentioned are Freemason utopian, reforming and free-thinking tendencies (Benjamin Franklin among a few). Jacob explains the exclusion of women in Freemasonry and the anti-masonic trends.

Knight, Stephen.

"The Brotherhood: The Secret World of The Freemasons."

Stein and Day: New York, 1984.

An interesting account of Freemasonry from an ‘outsiders’ view. He noted that many ‘outsiders’ would not publish works on the subject for fear of offending or causing resentment among the Freemasons. Despite this, Knight gives insight into the origins and fundamental points of Freemasonry and the process of recruitment and initiation into the explored. He also examines the power and influence in politics and the religious beliefs. Index I of this study includes Information For Candidates (from The Universal Book of Craft Masonry) with suggested readings and Masonic periodicals.

Newton, Joseph F.

"The Builders."

The Supreme Council, 33rd Degree, A.A.S.R.: Lexington Massachusetts, 1973.

Newton gives an interesting overview of Freemasonry provided with knowledge passed on by 33rd Degree Masons (the highest degree of Freemasonry of which only a rare few will obtain) Part I reveals the prophecies, working tools and The Secret Doctrines of the craft that have been highly guarded. Here he relates the relation between architecture and religion. Accounts of Old Charges and Constitutions of Masonry are embodied in quaint and curious writing, both in poetry and prose. Also noted is the first Masonic book issued in America; published by Benjamin Franklin. Newton also speaks of several musicians such as Haydn and Mozart whose works had a Masonic motif. In Part II: Interpretation, he gives the definition, philosophy and spirit of Masonry.

Pedicord, Harry W.

“Masonic Theatre Pieces in London 1730-1780.”

Theatre Survey. 25 (1984), 153-166.

Freemasonry as a vital force in the theatrical scene both before and behind the stage curtain; 18th century. Pedicord gives a compilation of plays, operas and song that were predominately Masonic in theme. Among the pieces are an Opera, “The Generous Free- Mason,” a tragedy, “The London Merchant,” and a drama, “Harlequin Freemason.” Each reflect the traditions and teachings of Freemasonry. All pieces are broken down scene by scene and explained. Samples of reviews in magazines and newspapers are also included.

Roberts, Allen E.

"Freemasonry in American History."

Macoy Publishing and Masonic Supply Co., Inc.: Richmond Virginia, 1985.

Roberts gives an account of the introduction of Freemasonry in the New World in the 17th century. The most interesting aspect is the explosion of Masonry throughout all of 18th century America. Extensive amounts of letters and manuscripts from several sources throughout New England and all American colonies are found here. Most note-worthy are the articles on Freemasonry published in the “Pennsylvania Gazette” (published by Benjamin Franklin) and excerpts from Thomas Paine’s “An Essay on the Origin of Free- masonry.” Each of the states are viewed separately in respect to Freemasonry, its influence and literature. Some of the most distinguished and influential men in America and in the fight for independence were Freemasons; there were many patriots. In Chapter 19, Rob Morris, a Kentucky Mason, is recognized as the man who established The Order of The Eastern Star (an organization for women). Roberts also gives account of resistance to Freemasonry and anti-masonic notions.

Roberts, Marie.

"British Poets and Secret Societies."

Barnes and Noble Books: Totowa New Jersey, 1986.

A compilation of works of 18th century poetry on the subject of Freemasonry. This book investigates the relationship between poets and secret societies; mainly Freemasonry. Included in the compilation are writings by Rudyard Kipling. The involvement of the poets with the Freemason Brotherhood is also examined. The poems include all aspects of Freemasonry; from their philosophy and practice to their rituals and dress. Each poem is broken down and interpreted, making this interesting reading even for those unfamiliar with Freemasonry.

York, Neil L.

“Freemasons and the American Revolution.”

The Historian. 55 (1993), 315-330.

York’s focus is on Masonry bringing together the Patriot Leaders in Revolutionary America. He explores Masonry as an indirect influence and contributor to the American Revolutionary impulse; possible involvement in the sinking of the Gaspee and the Boston Tea Party. York contends that Masonry deepened the concern of virtue in society and a sense of community responsibility and filial obligation among those who joined and led the Revolutionary Movement. Thus, the appeal of Freemasonry spread to thousands of men in 18th century America and Britain.